Caring for People at Home

Looking after those who are vulnerable to infection

Date posted:
11 Jan 2017

There are many reasons why people become vulnerable to infection. The elderly and very young babies are obvious examples, but it’s also very important to keep your home hygienically clean to prevent the spread of germs for those who:

Have recently been discharged from hospital

Are immuno-compromised (including those on chemotherapy)

Are undergoing ambulatory care

Are suffering from an underlying illness

If someone is in your care, make sure you give him or her the best chance of staying as healthy and as comfortable as possible.

Looking after someone at home

When someone is recovering from an operation, an illness or is undergoing medical treatment, their immune system becomes less able to fight infection. Even minor skin infections can lead to blood poisoning (septicaemia) if left untreated, which can have serious consequences. A healthy routine will help protect them from bacteria and disease.

Whatever the circumstances, there are plenty of ways you can help a vulnerable person in your care to live a healthy, comfortable life:

Caring for the elderly at home

There are many reasons why elderly people can become unable to look after their hygiene properly. They might be physically incapable of getting in and out of the bath, or they might have dementia or a mental health issue holding them back.

If you have an elderly relative living with you, it can be difficult to discuss personal hygiene issues with them. How can you go about maintaining a healthy routine, without making them (or you) feel uncomfortable?

Put yourself in their shoes. If you understand how your relative feels about their personal hygiene and what their limitations are, it will be easier to come to a compromise about routines and levels of care. Poor hygiene can lead to painful skin conditions, rashes, and serious infections. So, however hard it may be, remember that keeping them clean is essential for their good health.

Incontinence can cause feelings of shame or embarrassment for your elderly relative, as well as for you. But it’s important to change underwear regularly and sanitary protection. Keep the area clean and dry in order to avoid infection and unpleasant odours.

If someone is unable to care for themselves, make sure you wash their face, bottom and genitals every day to reduce the risk of infection